As is always the case, I heard a lot of good music this year.  And there was a lot more good music I didn’t hear. So I’m going to call this my favorites of the year and not suggest they were the best, but only the best that I heard. 1. Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale […]
Shawn's Picks – Best Albums of 2015
The Mavericks – Mono  More than their previous albums I felt like Mono showcased the band more than the individuals in it.  They”re not breaking any new ground here, but that”s like dinging someone for being the best in the world at something.  This stayed in the disc changer in my car for about 6 […]
Shawn’s Picks – Best Albums Of 2014
 1. Parker Millsap – Parker Millsap This album wasn’t Millsap’s first, but nonetheless it was twenty-some years in the making.  Full of stories tied to his roots in Oklahoma, his self-titled second album is a microcosm of Americana.  2. Old Crow Medicine Show – Remedy Although it’s hard for me to put my finger on […]
Shawn’s Top 10 Live Sets Of 2014
I’m fortunate enough to live in an area with a tradition of supporting live music. Â It’s not Austin or Nashville, but Santa Cruz holds its own when it comes to getting some great Americana tour stops. Â I’m also lucky enough to be able to travel to some music festivals every year. Â So while I don’t […]
Best of 2012 – Chip’s Picks
As it seems to be the case every year, there was way too much good music produced in 2012. I try hard to keep up with new releases, but it is often at the expense of time that would otherwise be spent on my favorites. However, for the purpose of “cussing and discussing” here is my […]
Editors’ Picks: Best Album of 2011: Jason Isbell’s “Here We Rest”
Last year, our Twangville authors combined forces to dub Justin Townes Earle‘s Harlem River Blues as Best Album of 2010. This year official Twangille Best Album of 2011 honors go to Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit‘s Here We Rest. Let me tell you this is no small feat as we’re a picky bunch. Our […]
Editors’ Pick: Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
They’re last album finished in the top ten of 2007. Will the latest Grace Potter and the Nocturnals album make the cut in 2010? Here’s what the Twangville editors think of their new self-titled album: Tom says: The album begins with the melodic scream “Ah yeah!” a fitting way to begin their third release on […]